Jay Wilde
Okra is a delicious and versatile vegetable that is used in numerous recipes, includingflavorful gumbo.
The freshness and taste of homegrown okra surpasses anything you buy at the store.
Even beginning gardeners have successgrowing okrabecause its a low-maintenance plant.
Credit:Jay Wilde
However, gardening with okra companion plants is key to a successful harvest.
Companion plantinghas several benefits.
Here is a list of companion plants that will help you grow a healthier harvest crop of okra.
Credit: Carson Downing
Beans and Peas
Beansandpeasare used in several ways to benefit okra plants.
Vining beans and peas also use the tall stems of okra as anatural trellis.
Cosmos
Okra is a self-pollinating plant, it doesnt necessarily need insects to produce pods.
Credit: Carson Downing
Some of these insects may also prey on okra pests, which is a win-win for you.
Coneflowers
Coneflowersare attractivenative plantsthat are perennials throughout much of the United States.
Leave coneflower seedheads through winter to provide a naturalfood source for birds.
Credit: Jon Jensen
Cucumbers
Cucumbersand okra are perfect garden companions because they have similar care requirements.
They both thrive in full sun and moist, rich soil.
Vining cucumbers help shield the soil around okra plants, preventing weeds and reducing soil moisture evaporation.
Credit: Bob Stefko
However, cucumber vines may need to be pruned or trellised to keep them from overwhelming your okra plants.
Bush-pop in cucumbers stay much smaller.
They can also be grown incontainer gardensalong with okra.
Credit: Matthew Benson
But planting hot peppers near your okra can keep cabbage worms away.
Melons
Carson Downing
Melonsare top okra companion plants, helping with their wide, flat leaves.
Oregano
The strong aroma oforeganohelps deter different pests.
Credit: Bob Stefko
Aperennialthat is winter-hardy even in cool climates, oregano will come back reliably year after year.
Steep oregano flowers to make a soothing tea that may help relieve coughs and sore throats.
Radishes
Cameron Sadeghpour
Radishesare some of the fastest-growing vegetables you’ve got the option to grow.
Credit:Carson Downing
Plus, radishes act as a trap crop forflea beetles.
Another benefit is that their roots break up tough soils, making it easier for okra roots to spread.
Zinnias
Zinniasare another plant that pollinators cant resist.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Whats more, the scent of zinnias tends to lure whiteflies away from your okra.
Herbs for Pollinator Gardens.University of Florida IFAS Extension Gardening Solution.
Credit:Cameron Sadeghpour
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
